In the broadest possible sense, sustainability refers to the ability of something to maintain or “sustain” itself over time. Nonetheless, we are using the this word in a more specific way. This is because of the environmental and social problems around the world that we are facing nowadays. In business and policy contexts, we determine the limits to sustainability by physical and natural resources. Also, by environmental degradation, and social resources. Sustainable practices support ecological, human, and economic health and vitality. In other words, it’s a set of processes and actions through which humankind avoids the depletion of natural resources. This is done in order to keep an ecological balance. This is why we apply the term “sustainability” to characterize improvements in many areas. Such as, natural resources overexploitation, manufacturing operations, consumer’s lifestyle and purchasing behaviors, technological developments, etc.
The switch to sustainability can be difficult. Many companies have issued sustainability goals such as commitment to zero-waste packaging by a certain year. In addition, to reduce overall emissions by a certain percentage. Because of the public goodwill created by these policies, they encounter skepticism over corporate “greenwashing,”. It’s the practice of providing a false impression that makes a business seem more environmentally-friendly than it is.
Some evidence is accruing that investors are actively embracing green investments. Sustainable investing surveys over the past couple of years have suggested this. Half of them say that sustainability is “fundamental” to investing strategy.
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